Assessments

What is a behavior assessment?

Basically, it's an evaluation that helps to determine whether a dog is 'safe' and what type of home
the dog or puppy is best suited for. The dog is tested to see how it deals with certain types of
restraint, overall activity level, food and/or resource guarding, and reaction to other dogs
(if a non-reactive dog is available to help). It's a simple test that can be performed quickly
if the person evaluating the dog has experience and can read body language effectively. That is,
after all, the main way dogs communicate with the world!

Why do an assessment?

I've performed hundreds of behavior assessments and truly believe they are an asset and provide
a better picture of the dog's overall temperament. Granted, they are only a glimpse into how
the dog is behaving at that particular moment, but in my experience they have proven invaluable.

If the shelter or adoption agency will allow it, I can assess the dog you are interested in and
give you my opinion as to whether or not it will be a good match for your lifestyle. If they won't
allow you to take the dog out prior to adoption then I will give you my opinion based on age, breed,
and kennel behavior. That's definitely not the best scenario but sometimes it's the best a
potential adopter can do.

For more information or if you would like to set up an appointment to have a dog or puppy assessed
please complete the Contact the Trainer form and I will be in touch
with you as quickly as possible.

Zinn Dog Training

Training Dogs and Their Owners in west Denver and foothills.

"A really companionable and indispensable dog is an accident of nature. You can't get it by breeding for it, and you can't buy it with money. It just happens along."
- E.B. White